Problem

850 million people in the world cannot read or write their name. Your contribution will ensure that children have access to age-appropriate and culturally relevant books at a young age. These books are written and illustrated by local talent in the indigenous language, supporting the local industry. When children learn to read they stay in school, have access to better jobs and support their families and communities.

The Gift

Your gift will provide children with access to appropriate literature - often for the first time. Because many families in the developing world do not possess the disposable income to purchase children's books, there is no economic incentive for publisheers to produce them. Room to Read hires authors and illustrators to create culturally relevant stories with colorful pictures for children to enjoy. In addition to supporting the growth of a local publishing industry for children, many of the books are bilingual providing children with an important stepping stone to learning English as their literacy grows.